Columbus, Ohio

Why? Frequent e-savers from cities around the country and more than enough activities for a weekend

The capital of Ohio, Columbus, has all the makings of a large city -- art, theater, culture, shopping -- but situated in the heart of the Midwest, it's often disregarded. More than $2 billion worth of development is currently planned or underway for the city, including a $73 million expansion of the convention center, a new downtown arena, and a world-class science center.

Location: Central Ohio, on the Scioto River. Port Columbus International Airport, just eight minutes from downtown, is serviced by 21 airlines and has more than 350 arrivals and departures daily

Tasty treats: Homemade peanut butter and chocolate "buckeyes"

Top outing: German Village, the largest privately restored neighborhood in the United States

Where to stay: Lofts Hotel, which feels like a big-city loft, until the Midwestern charm and service remind you where you are

Don't miss: The Wexner Center for the Arts, a contemporary art museum featuring film and video and sculpture exhibits

Suggested sights & activities:

• The Center of Science and Industry, which makes science and learning fun for people of all ages through its innovative approach to interactive science education
• Columbus Zoo, presided over by Jack Hanna of David Letterman fame and home to 40-year-old Colo, the first gorilla born in captivity, as well as the African Forest outdoor gorilla exhibit and the Manatee Coast exhibit
• German Village, one of the city's most popular residential areas, just south of the center, with shops and coffeehouses dotting its brick-lined streets
• The Brewery District, just west of German Village, the city's nightlife hub, with bars, restaurants, and nightclubs
• The Short North, just north of downtown, with scores of art galleries, antique shops, restaurants, and nightclubs. The galleries stay open late the first Saturday of each month for the popular Gallery Hops
• An Ohio State University football or basketball game. And if you can't get into a game, join one of the many tailgate parties

Columbus Destination Guide